About Krista
Krista Nerland: Leading Legal Counsel in Aboriginal Rights and Human Rights Litigation
Krista Nerland is a partner at OKT, recognized as a leading expert in complex litigation surrounding Aboriginal rights, Aboriginal title, treaty rights, human rights, and discrimination. With a distinguished career dedicated to advancing Indigenous jurisdiction and advocating for vulnerable populations, Krista brings a unique blend of legal expertise, courtroom experience, and a deep commitment to social justice. Her practice focuses on high-stakes litigation, including appellate work, and she has successfully represented clients at all levels of Canadian courts, including the Supreme Court of Canada.
Krista’s profound understanding of Indigenous legal issues stems from a rigorous academic foundation and a demonstrated commitment to practical advocacy. She holds a J.D. with honours from the University of Toronto, where she garnered numerous awards for academic excellence and achieved the highest standing in constitutional law, evidence, labour and employment, and business organizations. Prior to joining OKT, Krista served as a valued law clerk to the Honourable Justice Rosalie Abella at the Supreme Court of Canada, an invaluable experience providing unparalleled insight into the highest echelons of Canadian jurisprudence. This role honed her analytical skills and deepened her commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting fundamental rights.
During her time in law school, Krista actively engaged with leading legal institutions, collaborating with the Asper Centre for Constitutional Rights and the British Columbia Civil Liberties Association. These experiences solidified her expertise in human rights abuses, specifically focusing on the critical intersection of policing, corrections policy, and its disproportionate impact on Indigenous women. She undertook vital research and advocacy surrounding corrections policy, directly contributing to understanding and addressing systemic inequities. Furthermore, she volunteered with the Barbra Schlifer Clinic, offering crucial support to survivors of domestic violence, and with Pro-Bono Students Canada, providing legal representation to unrepresented litigants in the Ontario Court of Justice. These experiences fostered her empathy and reinforced her dedication to ensuring access to justice for all.
Krista’s leadership extends beyond her legal practice, as evidenced by her role as the Co-Chair of the Feminist Law Students Association and the Co-Editor in Chief of the Journal of Law and Equality. This involvement underscored her passion for promoting gender equality and fostering a more inclusive legal environment. She also holds a Masters of Arts (Political Science) from McGill University, building on her legal foundation with a broader understanding of political science and transitional justice, enriching her perspective on complex legal challenges.
Krista is a respected and dedicated legal professional, actively contributing to the legal community. She is a member of the Law Society of Ontario, the Law Society of the Northwest Territories, and the Advocates Society, reflecting her commitment to upholding the highest standards of legal practice. She is an adjunct professor at Osgoode Hall Law School, where she co-teaches a highly regarded class on Rights and Reconciliation, shaping the next generation of legal professionals. Her expertise extends to litigation across a range of issues, including Aboriginal law, Indigenous practice, and administrative and public law.
Key Achievements & Credentials:
Expertise: Litigation related to Aboriginal rights, Aboriginal title, treaty rights; human rights and discrimination; advancing Indigenous jurisdiction; appellate litigation.
Court Appearances: Regular appearances at all levels of Canadian courts, including the Supreme Court of Canada.
Education: J.D. with honours, University of Toronto (Awards for academic excellence and highest standing in constitutional law, evidence, labour and employment, and business organizations).
Previous Experience: Law Clerk to the Hon. Justice Rosalie Abella, Supreme Court of Canada.
Professional Affiliations: Law Society of Ontario, Law Society of the Northwest Territories, Advocates Society; Adjunct Professor, Osgoode Hall Law School.
Commitment to Social Justice: Extensive volunteer work with organizations supporting vulnerable populations, including the Barbra Schlifer Clinic and Pro-Bono Students Canada.
Focus Areas: Krista specializes in providing strategic legal counsel and effective representation in complex cases involving Indigenous rights, human rights, and administrative law. Her comprehensive legal knowledge and dedicated advocacy make her a powerful force in protecting individual and collective rights.
